A 17-year-old boy has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of 16-year-old Kamari Johnson, who was stabbed to death in broad daylight during a dispute over a £180 moped in Hayes, West London.
The killer, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of murder and possession of a bladed article following a trial at the Old Bailey. He was handed the sentence on Friday.
Chilling Daylight Attack Caught on Video
The fatal stabbing occurred shortly after 1:30pm on May 24, 2024, in Bourne Avenue, a residential street in Hayes. Kamari had attempted to flee the attack on his moped but crashed shortly after being stabbed. His attacker had chased him down on foot—the terrifying pursuit was captured on CCTV.
Kamari collapsed in the street and was tended to by members of the public, but despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police Condemn ‘Petty’ Violence
Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, who led the investigation for the Metropolitan Police, said:
“Our thoughts are with Kamari’s loved ones. Though nothing can bring him back, this sentence removes a cold-blooded killer from the streets.
“Shockingly, the motive appears to have been a dispute over a £180 moped. This case illustrates how petty disagreements can spiral into murderous violence when knives are carried.”
Self-Defence Claim Rejected by Jury
The teenager handed himself in at Hayes Police Station the following day, telling officers he had acted in self-defence. However, CCTV footage, witness accounts, and mobile phone records painted a clear picture of a calculated pursuit.
The court heard that the row began with a disagreement over the sale of a second-hand moped. The dispute escalated to a violent confrontation, ending in Kamari’s tragic death.
Knife Crime Continues to Claim Young Lives
Kamari Johnson is one of dozens of teenagers killed in knife attacks across London in recent years. His death adds to growing concern over youth violence and the ease with which weapons are carried by young people.
Police have once again urged the public to report anyone suspected of carrying a knife and warned of the devastating consequences of violent feuds.
